Friday, April 12, 2024

Hambantota, Sri Lanka

Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka is an island country in the Indian Ocean. It is a biodiversity hotspot with hundreds of endemic species of animals. We got to debut our safari clothing and our bronc riding skills as we ventured out on a safari in Udawalawe National Park in safari jeeps and were thrilled to see many unique animals and birds in their natural habitat. We also were treated to feeding time at the Elephant Transit Home where orphaned baby elephants are rehabilitated so they can be reintroduced into the wild. So many elephants are orphaned, ie: farmers sometimes kill them to keep them from destroying their farms. The little elephants would die if not fed and taught to act like normal elephants to be introduced into the herds in the wilderness. Fantastic experience!

Crocodile enjoying a live monkey lunch.

Rice fields are prolific — a fundamental part of Asian cuisine.

Indonesian feast aboard the ship.